Saturday, August 18, 2007

It seems like only a year ago, I was celebrating my one year blogging anniversary. And now, in the blink of an eye, another year has gone by. All I can say is, time sure flies when you're writing an informative and entertaining blog, filled with fun facts, wry observations, and amusing anecdotes.

But an old friend of mine noted recently that I don't allow comments on my blog. She asked me, "What's the point of a blog without comments?" In my case, it's so I can deliver my weekly message to the people, but according to her, the blog phenomenon is all about posting and linking to other blogs.

I don't necessarily agree, but she isn't the only person to wonder about my no-comment rule. A much newer friend of mine asked me about it when I first started the blog. My reply to her was that if she wanted to post something, she should probably start her own blog.

By the way, after reading last week's post about taping things with my VCR, this newer friend of mine emailed me saying "I can't believe you still have tapes!" If I allowed comments on my blog, perhaps she might have expressed that thought in a comment instead. Maybe that's a good thing, or maybe it isn't -- I don't know. I'm probably just being old-fashioned, but I think it adds a nice personal touch to send a message like that in a private email.

And yes, in case you're wondering, I realize that it's hopelessly analog of me to still have tapes. I have no excuse for this, just as I have no excuse for not having a huge flat-screen TV. But if I did have an excuse, it would probably be that I don't care about those things that much.

Anyway, I was sort of kidding about the "get your own blog" comment, but the truth is, I never expected anyone to read this blog, let alone take the time to post a response, so I decided there'd be no harm in prohibiting people from leaving comments. I never saw my blog as a vehicle for social networking -- I saw it strictly as a way for me to express my ideas, opinions, and other miscellaneous thoughts. And two years after my original post, it's still the best way to find out what's on my mind without actually having to talk to me.

However, in celebration of this two-year anniversary, I've decided to try a little experiment and I'm now allowing comments. I still don't expect many people to read this blog or post a response, though. Keep in mind, I've been invisible for most of my life, so I've never really expected anyone to take notice of the things I do. But on the odd chance that someone reading something I've written feels compelled to reply, I will now welcome comments.